Marsha Lee Christensen
September 21, 1948 - December 17, 2022
On December 17, 2022 Marsha Lee Christensen passed away unexpectedly while in San Carlos, Mexico – her favorite place on the planet. She was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on September 21, 1948. She is survived by her husband Roger Christensen, her loving son Matt (Rachel) Christensen and her siblings Clark (Janet) Spilker, Janna (John) Hall, Chuck (Connie) Spilker, and Mike (Ann) Spilker. She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Joyce Spilker and her younger brother Kevin Spilker.On the day she passed she witnessed a sea turtle hatch for the first time, which was a long-held dream of hers.Marsha was a trained anthropologist and social worker, but her first love was nature. Marsha loved Utah deserts, The Sea of Cortez, the Oregon Coast, wild rivers, gardening, cacti, all wildlife and especially birds, dirt roads, and her friends. She was extraordinarily proud of her son Matt. She did not tolerate bigotry, homophobia or misogyny.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East. Guests are encouraged to use the parking and entrance on the north side of the building. February is the early stage of the spring bird migration and she will be ready to fly with them.In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hawkwatch International Salt Lake City, in Marsha's honor. https://hawkwatch.org/marshachristensen“When someone I know passes, I tell the birds that someone who loved and cared for them had to fly away. They will sing a special song tomorrow.”David Jasper, Ornithologist
In Loving Memory
Marsha had an adventurous and curious spirit. She left her influence on both people and nature. I was a lucky recipient of her love. She was my mentor and teacher, my confidant and dear friend. Marsha was a powerful force in my life. I will miss her deeply. I send my love and condolences to her family.
Roger, Matt, & Rachel, We are so very sorry for your loss but are blessed that we were able to share many beautiful sunsets and joyful memories together in Mexico. We are keeping you in our hearts and remembering Marsha's amazing kindness, friendship, love of nature, beautiful jewelry, giving to children in Mexico, and her incredible knowledge of birds. We love you.
I met Marsha when I was in high school, kicking around with her son Matt. I adored Matt, Marsha and Roger. I loved eating Mexican food with the family. She was always so loving and welcoming. She was a breathe of fresh air, she was spunky, fun, amazing on a river trip, she was a loving mom and a cheerleader for us kids. It was way to soon to lose her but she loved well and will be remembered with an open heart, red sand under her nails and sun on her face. Travel well, Marsha.
In Loving Memory
